4 Days Mount Meru Climbing

Mount Meru is a conical volcanic Mountains, Arusha town is located on the foot of this mountain which is the second highest mountain in Tanzania at 4,5685m, and fifth highest in Africa.

Its location within Arusha National Park, gives you a great opportunity to spot some of the birds and wildlife that inhabit the area.The ascend is quite sheer, the route leading to the summit passes over streams, through parkland, montane forest, a giant heather zone and moorland. The summit is reached by a narrow, barren ridge, providing stunning views of the Ash Cone lying several thousand feet below in the crater. With clear clouds. Mt. Kilimanjaro can be seen in the West. Accommodation while climbing Mount Meru is Parks’ huts.

Between October and February is the best time to climb Mount Meru. June to September is also best time to climb, however it quite during this time. This climb can be used for acclimatization before you attempt Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Day 1: Arusha to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m)

Your 4 days Mount Meru Climbing starts, as you are collected from your hotel after breakfast and transferred to Momella Gate of Arusha National Park (1,500 m.). After clearing entrance formalities, you begin your hike, guided by a park ranger and accompanied by Kilitop & Safaris mountain crew. Your trek to Mariakamba passes open grassland, providing an opportunity to spot buffalo, warthogs and other grazers. Continue with your hiking as you gain steady climb through montane forest. You will have a break near a giant Fig Tree arch whey you will enjoy your packed lunch. After lunch, proceed with your climb through less dense forest, where there are an abundance of birds and black and white colobus monkeys.
By mid-afternoon, you will be able to see the towering cliffs and the Ash Cone. Reach Miriakamba Hut at 2,514 m. and located in an idyllic grassy glade. You have ample time to enjoy the last of the afternoon sun and beautiful views over the surrounding plains towards Kilimanjaro. (4-6 hours walking). Overnight Stay at Miriakamba Hut. All meals included.

Day 2: Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m) to Saddle Hut (3,570 m)

Today your trek takes you from Miriakamba Hut to the saddle below Little Meru.It is a short climb but a steep. Take a slowly hike through lush montane forest to reach the halfway point of Elephant Ridge. While here, enjoy fantastic views of the summit ridge and across the crater floor. Your hiking continues through giant heather and other fascinating moorland vegetation to reach Saddle Hut a3,570 m, where lunch is will be provided. You have a free afternoon to relax and to enjoy the breathtaking views. If you have more energy left, you can make the short climb to the nearby summit of Little Meru (3,820 m) for superb views just before sunset. (3-5 hours walking). Overnight at Saddle Hut with all meals included.

Day 3: Saddle Hut (3,570 m) to Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m)

You start early at around 2 a.m. climbing steeply to Rhino Point (3,800 m.), continue with your trek along an undulating ridge of ash and rock to reach Cobra Point (4,350 m) Depending on your speed, you can enjoy sunrise at Cobra Point or the summit. At at sunrise,the views here are absolutely stunning: You have the cliffs of the Crater rim, and the Ash Cone rising from the Crater floor, Kilimanjaro floating on the morning clouds and west towards the Rift Valley if visibility is good. A further one hour trek on a good but steep path, brings you to the summit of Socialist Peak (4,566 m.). Spend sometimes on the summit and thereafter descend to Rhino Point in the morning light. The descent from the summit to Rhino Mariakamba is through a narrow ridge between the sloping outer wall of the crater and the sheer cliffs of the inner wall, is undoubtedly one of the most dramatic and exhilarating walks in Africa. Enjoy a rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before descending further to Miriakamba Hut at 2,514 m, this is a 10-12 hours walk.
A word of advice on Miriakamba Hut: If you are suffering from vertigo, the ridge between the summit and Rhino Point is not suitable for you.In strong winds or in icy conditions, it may be impossible for you to progress beyond Rhino Point. Overnight at Miriakamba Hut with all meals included.

Day 4: Miriakamba Hut (2,514 m) – hotel in Arusha

Today is the end of your Mt. Meru trek as you take the direct route down which takes you through open grassland and mixed forest, with good chances of seeing wildlife. The trail has great views back towards the crater and over the plains of the National Park. Depending on your pace, you should reach Momella Gate by late morning (2-3 hours walking).You will find your private driver waiting to take you back to Arusha town where you will refreshen-up, followed by lunch and a free afternoon to relax and prepare for Mt. Kilimanjaro climb or go on a wildlife safari to the premier parks of Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro crater at an additional cost.